Former public defender and former Assistant Attorney General. I am a solo practitioner with focus on cases in Williamson, Jackson, Franklin and Jefferson counties. I am major (retired) from the Army Reserve where I served 6 years as a Senior Military Defense Counsel in the JAG Corp. I am married and have one son.

I am a former prosecutor for the Williamson County State's Attorney. I am proud to dedicate my life to defending the US and IL Constitutions and fighting for our rights. I am devoted to the prosecution of the wrongdoers in the practice of personal injury. I promise to do everything I can to get you the best possible outcome no matter how big or small your case may seem. Schedule a time to talk and I would be happy to give you a free consult, regardless of your legal issue.

I adhere to the enduring philosophy that honesty, commitment, and personal service are the starting points for any good attorney-client relationship. I pride myself on putting my clients needs first and being a strong advocate on their behalf. In this regard, I have exceptionally strong skills in the areas of legal research, analysis, writing and advocacy. I am admitted and practice in the Federal District and Bankruptcy Courts for the Northern, Central and Southern District of Illinois and before the U.S. Seventh Judicial Court of Appeals and the United States Tax Court.

Joel Beckwith, was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and raised by his parents in Southern Illinois. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2009, where he studied philosophy and political science. During his senior year he was awarded Outstanding Senior Assignment in Philosophy from SIUE. He later attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale where he obtained his law degree. During his final year in law school he completed a one year externship practicing in the public defender’s office. It was during this time he assisted his supervisor with a variety of criminal matters- from domestic disputes to...

I began my legal career as a Law Clerk for Judge Joseph Barr in the late 1970's. From there, I worked at Dunham, Bowman & Leskera as their Law clerk till January of 1981 when I became an Assistant States Attorney for Madison County Illinois. My tour of duty there lasted 4 years. From January 1985 through December 1996, my legal career had been with both Attorney Ben Allen and Doug Mendenhall. Effective January 1, 1997 I am a solo practitioner, and handle all sorts of legal matters, specializing in Plaintiffs Personal Injury and Criminal Defense. I provide full service...

A former prosecutor, I gained insight into what the government looks at when prosecuting defendants. I have successfully conducted many jury trials. From Murder to DUI I have won for my clients. Let my 24 years of trial experience work for you. My practice is primarily criminal defense oriented. Madison, St. Clair, Jersey, Macoupin, Monroe, Montgomery, Clinton, and Bond counties are the counties I concentrate in. Unlike other attorneys, we don't practice in other areas such as bankruptcy, collections, or small claims. We prefer to concentrate our efforts in criminal defense....

The King Law Firm, LLC is a trial practice focused on Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, Traffic & DUI's, and Driver's License Reinstatement. Patrick established his law practice in his hometown of Alton, IL. The firm offers a variety of legal services to individuals, families, public entities, and small businesses. Patrick 's wife - Stephanie - also practices in the areas of Estate Planning, Guardianships, and Probate. Patrick serves the legal interests of his hometown and the greater St. Louis Metropolitan Area. The practice is built on strong professional relationships and clear communications with all clients. The legal process can be...

Michael J. Swanson is an experienced courtroom attorney who knows how to navigate the court system to aggressively represent his clients and maximize favorable outcomes. Prior to joining the law firm of Swanson & Sackett P.C., Michael served as the Managing Attorney in the Madison County State's Attorney's Office child support division. In this role, he handled thousands of cases each year and gained extensive courtroom experience. Michael earned his Juris Doctorate at Saint Louis University and his bachelor's degree at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), which he attended following his six-year enlistment with the U.S. Air Force....

As a native of Bond County, Illinois, I am proud to be serving my home community. I grew up in Pocahontas, Illinois and graduated from Greenville High School in 2006. After that I attended Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, IN, where I graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor’s Degree in social studies education, history, and political science. After this, I attended Syracuse University, where I graduated with a Law Degree and a Master of Public Administration in 2014. I am glad to be back home, giving back to the community that has had such a great influence...

A former criminal prosecutor, Mr. Friedel is a highly regarded attorney among his peers, having served as Fayette County State’s Attorney for three terms from 2000 through 2012. With a focus on criminal defense, personal injury and workers' compensation claims, Stephen is also a strong advocator of foster parents' rights and brings wealth of experience and knowledge to the law offices of Tapella & Eberspacher.

Criminal Lawyers in Nearby Counties

Criminal law addresses the government's prosecution of individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. Such laws may be federal, state, or local. The prosecution represents the people of a particular jurisdiction, and acts on behalf of the government by bringing a case against an accused. Under the U.S. Constitution, a person accused of a crime may have the right to a criminal defense attorney during interrogations and certain other times before and during a trial.

Whether you are under police investigation, have been arrested, or are facing charges, having an advocate familiar with the criminal justice system.

Most jurisdictions classify crimes as felonies or misdemeanors, with felonies being the more serious offenses with the possibility of more severe sentences. Some criminal lawyers focus on a specific area of criminal defense law, such as white-collar crime, drug offenses, theft crimes, or violent crimes. You should consult with a criminal defense lawyer early on in the process to preserve options, such as diversion programs or plea bargains.

When hiring a criminal defense attorney, you should evaluate the experience and fee structure of the attorney. Some offer a free consultation to discuss your case.

Accomplice liability:
If a person aids, assists, or encourages another in the commission of a crime, they are criminally liable as an accomplice to the crime.

Self-defense:
The claim that an act otherwise criminal was legally justifiable because it was necessary to protect a person or property from the threat or action of another.